First non-stop from Ottawa lands at RSW

It was a milestone day at RSW after the first ever direct flight from Ottawa arrived Saturday afternoon. Officials believe it's the start of a new seasonal service that will help the airport soar to new heights.

"It's nice to escape the cold weather of Ottawa," said Elianne Hall of Ottawa.

For Elianne Hall's family there's never been an easy way to get back home.

"We were just flying all over the place," Hall said.

Traveling has been more then a hassle for Canadian native.

"It's just been a nightmare," Hall said.

Until Saturday…

"We just love it! I mean, having the capital city come in of Ottawa, a city like that come to our airport is really cool," said Carol Obermeier, SWFL International Airport

It's part of a new seasonal service that Westjet is offering.

"There's always a connection so it's really nice to have something that can actually fly direct," said Brad Dolan of Ottawa

One that airport officials say was a must have.

"Our numbers for Canada are really just going wild, they're up 11% compared to last November," Obermeier said.

…Opening the door for other possibilities.

"We're looking at some other Canadian markets. If someone takes the first step to do something like this, others will follow," Obermeier said.

"This is really nice for all of us to have a direct flight home...especially with the baby," Hall said.